Islamabad: The Pakistan government has placed Rawalpindi and Islamabad on high alert, enforcing Section 144 to prevent large-scale demonstrations announced by former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s supporters. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hasan Waqar, bans all public gatherings from December 1 to 3, including rallies, protests, sit-ins, and assemblies of more than five people.
Strict restrictions have also been imposed on carrying weapons, sticks, petrol bombs, catapults, or any explosive material. The use of loudspeakers, delivering hate speeches, removing police barricades, and even riding a motorcycle with a pillion passenger have been prohibited to maintain law and order.
PTI’s Call for Protests Triggers Crackdown
Imran Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), had announced major demonstrations outside the Islamabad High Court and Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. This came after a dramatic incident on November 27, when KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi — who visited Adiala Jail to support Imran Khan — was allegedly dragged and beaten by police on military orders.
The tensions escalated further when Chief Minister Afridi and several PTI ministers held an overnight sit-in, protesting that he was denied permission to meet Imran Khan for the eighth consecutive time. The group offered Fajr prayers outside the jail and later announced they would take their protest to the Islamabad High Court.
Rumours About Imran Khan’s Health Intensify
In recent days, rumours about Imran Khan’s death have circulated widely on social media, deepening the unrest. His son Qasim Khan and his sisters have repeatedly demanded proof from authorities to confirm that Imran Khan is alive and safe. Meanwhile, PTI continues staging protests across the region.
As tensions rise, the enforcement of Section 144 and the heavy security deployment indicate the government’s attempt to control the situation before it escalates further.
